Anatomic Classification of Lymph Nodes

Abstract

One of the most widely used, imaging-based classifications of cervical lymph nodes (LNs) is the one introduced by Som et al., which is based on the clinical classifications of the American Joint Committee on Cancer and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery [1–3]. This classification system has been shown to be simple and consistent, with nodal levels easily distinguished by radiologists on axial slices of neck CT and MRI exams. Although this system was originally conceived as a nodal mapping guide for selecting the most appropriate neck dissection procedure, its simplicity and reproducibility make it appropriate for other clinical uses, including assessment of lymphoma patients. Indeed, in the case of lymphoma, standardization of lymph node terminology facilitates communication between imagers (radiologists and nuclear physicians) and clinicians (oncologists, hematologists, and radiotherapists) and aids correct evaluation of initial disease extent, treatment planning, and treatment response assessment.